Addiction is both a human illness and a tragedy. But the story of one man's alcohol addiction, and how he and his long-suffering wife laid down the foundations for Alcoholic Anonymous, has also become a singular inspiration.

That story is told in When Love is Not Enough: The Lois Wilson Story, co-starring Winona Ryder and Barry Pepper. Set from their humble beginnings in 1917 as a newly married couple, and running through to their hard-earned triumphs of the 1940s and 1950s, When Love is Not Enough is a meticulously crafted biopic about Lois and Bill Wilson.

It comes from Hallmark Hall of Fame. The story is set primarily in the U.S., but was filmed in Canada by veteran director John Kent Harrison. A clutch of excellent Canadian character actors populate the screen, including underused powerhouse Ellen Dubin. More on the Dubinator in a moment. Other talent is Canadian, too, including excellent composer Lawrence Shragge, who sweetens the deal without making his score mushy.

With Hallmark's name attached, you automatically know it is family fare. Naturally, there is no Hollywood pandering, no gratuitous sex and violence. But there is violence: Of the emotional kind perpetrated by a drunk on the woman who loves him. How they resolve that decades-long struggle is the stuff of humanity. While story elements are fictionalized, there is much truth.

"This a very compelling movie about a relationship that is so powerful and intense, and yet so dysfunctional," Dubin observes in an interview. "I got a lot of e-mails from people about how this film profoundly affected and inspired them (after its broadcast premiere April 25). It made this film so worthwhile for me. That is why we do what we do as actors - to affect and move people. I got some very beautiful, heartfelt letters from people who were in recovery programs and who thanked me for taking part in such an important project."

The movie is now available on DVD, in a specialized, niche manner. It is for sale in all Hallmark stores across North America. This exclusivity will not only be repeated, but expanded in the future. Filmmakers and production companies are looking for ways to give their work a viable home entertainment life. With thousands of titles still debuting yearly - despite the recession - fare such as When Love is Not Enough needs to stand out in a crowded marketplace.

It helps that Hallmark has recognizable stars. Ryder, an American whose talent has never diminished, now is rebuilding her career. Pepper, a Canadian, is an exceptionally driven, skilled individual. Together, they make a convincing case to be believed, and to inspire compassion, as the Wilsons.

Dubin plays a Wall Street matron (and she should have more screen time opposite Ryder). She offers observations on the co-stars:

"Winona was a real team player. She worked very hard to make sure that the dialogue sounded fitting to the period, and created a gentle, calm atmosphere on the set. She really cared about the film and always made sure that we were all working together. The chemistry of the women is a true testament to her devotion. I loved working with her. I was so impressed with her work ethic because she had a huge load to carry. And she has the most beautiful skin I have ever seen. She glows from within!"

Dubin had no scenes with Pepper, but watched him in action. "He is an immensely talented man. I appreciated his commitment and the way he jumped into his role with dedication and absolute fierce passion."

When Love is Not Enough should be seen, should be heard, and should be listened to.